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From Aspiring Player to Renowned Trainer: Chris Brickley's Unconventional Journey

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Chris Brickley, a former aspiring basketball player, found his true calling as an elite trainer, forming close relationships with NBA superstars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant.

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Chris Brickley, born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, always harbored dreams of making it big in the sports world. He walked on at the University of Louisville in 2008 with aspirations of playing professionally. However, reality soon set in, and Brickley realized that a career as a player was not in the cards.

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Undeterred, Brickley shifted his focus to coaching. He became a graduate assistant at Ole Miss, followed by an assistant role at Fairleigh Dickinson. Despite his efforts, he struggled to secure even a high school coaching job in New Jersey.

Brickley's fortunes took an unexpected turn when he landed an internship with the New York Knicks. It was a foot in the door of the NBA, but far from the glamorous world he had imagined. His role was primarily custodial, cleaning locker rooms.

However, fate had a surprising twist in store. During the preseason, Carmelo Anthony missed a game-winning shot and was instructed to avoid contact with the team after the game. Brickley, defying orders, approached Anthony to offer words of encouragement.

Brickley's act of defiance proved to be a life-changing moment. Anthony, impressed by Brickley's genuine concern, asked for him to be his personal trainer. Brickley credits this pivotal encounter for launching his career.

With Anthony's support, Brickley ascended through the ranks of the Knicks organization, eventually becoming the team's director of player personnel. His journey further solidified when Phil Jackson took over as coach and retained Brickley as the only non-fired staff member.

Over a decade later, Brickley boasts a staggering 3 million Instagram followers and has forged deep bonds with some of the greatest players in the NBA. LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and other All-Stars flock to his gym at the Summit apartment building in Manhattan for off-season workouts.

Brickley's influence extends beyond NBA stars, attracting celebrities like Justin Bieber, Drake, and Quavo to his viral celebrity games. His partnership with BODYARMOR aligns with his values of authenticity and excellence, further cementing his status as an industry leader.

Brickley's hometown recently honored his achievements with "Chris Brickley Day," complete with new basketball courts and giveaways. While his journey isn't exactly what he envisions as a player, Brickley expresses gratitude for the unexpected opportunities it has presented.

Despite his success, Brickley remains ambitious. He plans to return to coaching in the future, potentially on the executive side. For now, he cherishes the freedom and partnerships that allow him to control his own narrative and work with the best in the game.

Brickley's story serves as an inspiring reminder that even when dreams take an unexpected turn, perseverance and authenticity can lead to unexpected heights.